President John Mahama has expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the Holy Land, Israel, describing it as a “painful irony” that the land where Christ was born and preached love and forgiveness has become an epicentre of war and violence.

Speaking to Christian believers at the Light House Church during the Good Friday service at the Independence Square, the President stated that Easter is not only a time for reflection but also a call to action for peace and reconciliation.

"As we celebrate Easter, we cannot ignore the pain of our world. And so today, our thoughts and prayers go out to our brothers and sisters in the Middle East, and especially to the Holy Land, the birthplace of our faith, where conflict continues to claim innocent lives and deepen human suffering.

"It is a painful irony that the land where Christ was born and preached love and forgiveness has become a theater or epicenter of war and violence," he lamented.

President Mahama extended prayers to all those affected by conflict in the Middle East, including Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Iran, and surrounding regions.

Quoting Matthew 5:9, he reminded Ghanaians of the timeless call for peacemaking: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called Children of God.”

He urged global leaders and citizens alike to pursue dialogue, restraint, and lasting solutions in areas of strife.

Highlighting the universal message of Easter, the President underscored that hatred cannot drive out hatred, and only love can foster lasting peace.

He called on individuals to take personal responsibility, stating, “Each of us must make decisions that will not make us agents of division but instruments of unity. We will not contribute to the problems we complain about, but we will be part of the solutions we seek.”

Additionally, President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to peace, justice, and human dignity, urging citizens to carry the message of Easter into their daily lives by promoting hope, unity, and reconciliation.